Discover ancient sculpture in Wat Phou

Archeologists have discovered a rare piece of sculpture at a mountain site near Vat Phou Champassak, which they believe to be of significant heritage value and dating back to the 7th century.
Archeologists are excited about the discovery of the ancient sculpture, which they say this is one of the most special objects that they have found in Laos.
At about 2.20 metres long and 90 cm in width, the sculpture is made of sandstone and inscribed with two naga and a Hindu spiritual image.
The relic was found last weekend at the site of Kao mountain in the reserve area of World Heritage listed Vat Phou Champassak.
Covered with pieces of bricks, the area between Phonthong and Champassak districts was close to the Mekong River, with the 22 cm thick sculpture hidden underneath about 20 centimetres of debris.
This piece was discovered by archeologists who were conducting an excavation at the reserve area at Vat Phou. Some other small pieces were also found in the area.
The archeologists said the area used to be an old palace or shrine in the 7th century and they speculated that this piece was part of the gate to the shrine.
Heritage officials and archeologists are excited about their discovery. They described it as one of the rarest discoveries that they had ever made, especially given its suspected artistic and heritage value.
Deputy Director of Champassak Provincial Department of Information Culture, Tourism, Mr Sivone Vangkhonevilay said the sculpture is believed to have been attached to the gate at the temple.
Each religion has its own symbols and beliefs, he noted, saying that this particular design consists of a Hindu image and two naga that have flowers on their mouths, which are situated on each side of the sculpture.
“This is considered to be the most special and rare discovery in our country that archeologists have ever made, particularly regarding the historical value of the sculpture,” he said.
The sculpture has now been moved to go on exhibit for the public at the Vat Phou temple site.
Officials said people are not allowed to dig or fossick in the area as it is reserved and part of the national heritage.

Source: Vientiane Times